Cheika happy with Leinster despite defeat

Leinster coach Michael Cheika was pleased with his squad's performance in a narrow 31-28 at Biarritz Olympique on Friday night.

"It seemed as though the squad were almost a little bit shocked at the start of the game because they scored two tries in the first seven minutes and we had hardly touched the ball.

"The first time we got our hands on the ball we scored a try through Sean O'Brien who was one of a number of players to put in strong performances as did the likes of Richie Sweeney and Fionn Carr. In fact, all the Academy boys responded to the challenges they faced.

"There were a few holes in our play and we're under no illusion that there are areas that need improving, but some of the younger guys have put the cat amongst the pigeons (in terms of selection). We're not getting carried away, but I was pleased with a lot of our set-ups.

"The effort throughout the game was very pleasing. Johnny Sexton played excellently and all the younger players would have learned a lot playing in that environment alongside old heads like Leo Cullen and Chris Whitaker.

"It has been a different preparation for the squad this pre-season. We have tried to use last two years preparation as the basis for what we want to do. We made improvements and the squad will go through a few more days conditioning and skills work in Barcelona on Sunday until the middle of next week before we face Bath on Friday."